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Alexander the Great

The Making of a Myth
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Alexander the Great explores the enduring legend of the ancient king of Macedon, who ascended the throne at 20 and forged one of history's largest empires before his death in 323 BC. Beyond historical facts, this book delves into the mythical stories that have surrounded Alexander for over two millennia, tracing their origins and cultural impact across western and eastern traditions.

The narrative reveals how Alexander's image evolved through the ages, from medieval tales of mythical beasts and fantastical voyages to his ongoing presence in modern media including film, theatre, literature, and video games. Featuring exquisite original illustrations from global manuscripts and books, this volume accompanies the first-ever exhibition dedicated to the storytelling of Alexander the Great.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$7699
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book is ideal for readers interested in history, mythology, and cultural studies, as well as those fascinated by legendary figures and their impact on art and storytelling through the centuries.

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Accompanying the first ever exhibition on the storytelling around Alexander the Great, King of Macedon, this book charts the evolution of a legend that continues to captivate audiences today.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Accompanying the first ever exhibition on the storytelling around Alexander the Great, King of Macedon, this book charts the evolution of a legend that continues to captivate audiences today.

Alexander the Great acceded to the throne at the age of 20, as king of the ancient Greek kingdom of Macedon. By his death in 323 BC, he had created one of the largest empires in the world. However, myth proved more powerful than historical truth, and Alexander's life remains lost in legend.

These stories permeate western and eastern cultures and religions, enduring for more than 2,000 years. Even now, Alexander continues to appeal to new generations, and his image persists today in film, theatre, literature, and even video games.

This book explores the stories that began shortly after Alexander's mysterious death, which by the Middle Ages had developed into a narrative of Alexander as the all-conquering hero who fought mythical beasts and explored the unknown using submarines and flying chariots. These incredible legends are brought to life here with exquisite original illustrations in books and manuscripts from around the globe.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780712354479

Publisher: British Library Publishing

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 21 October 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: British Library Publishing

Illustration: 200+ Colour Illustrations

Contributors:

  • Edited by Richard Stoneman

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 220.0mm

Height: 280.0mm

Weight: 300g

Pages: 304

About the Author

Richard Stoneman is the author of many scholarly and trade works in the field of Greek history. Formerly Consultant to the Everyman Library on Classics, he is globally acknowledged as the foremost expert on the myths of Alexander.

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